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Do you know your dog’s personality? “Of course I do!” would be your most likely answer. Just like those moments when you fail to understand the behaviour of a family member, you may at times be in a fi x to tell “What kind of a dog my pet is!” Though a lot has to do with his breed and genetic characteristics, many personality traits are acquired by nature and nurture. Here’s a simple quiz to decipher your pooches’ personality and bring you closer to understanding them.

1. When you have first-time visitors at home, your dog:

Leaps, bounds and climbs all over the stranger.

Hides under the table with his tail tucked between the legs.

Takes a slow approach and sniffs before deciding to come closer.

Barks, growls and bares his teeth.

2. Your pawed friend is happiest when:

There is a party in the house.

Left alone with a dog-biscuit or a bone.

He gets to spend quality time alone with you.

He gets to chase a mouse or play a rough game on the grass.

3. How often does your dog bark?

Almost throughout the day.

He doesn’t actually bark, he whimpers.

Only when he feels like.

Whenever he sees anything strange or moving.

4. What is your pooch’s favourite pastime?

Being around with people and making new friends.

Cosying up in a corner.

Going out for a refreshing walk.

Biting!

5. When you punish your dog for behaving badly:

He sulks for a while and then returns with a bang…. in a few minutes.

Gets traumatized and refuses to come out of a hideout for several hours.

Sulks and waits for you to come, pamper and coax him.

Doesn’t really care.

6. Among the neighbourhood kids, your dog:

Is a celebrity.

Is petted occasionally by serious dog-lovers.

Is approachable but moody.

Is a terror and makes kids scamper away even when he steps out to pee.

7. On meeting another dog, your dog:

Rubs noses, paws the “new friend” and bites on the muzzle.

Pushes his ears backward and lies on his back with the tail tucked between the legs.

Sniffs up the new dog from all angles and makes calculated moves

Meeting another dog? You must be kidding!

8. During a drive in the car, your dog:

Loves to stick his head out of the window and catch the fresh breeze.

Can’t help peeing and throwing up all the way.

Has his initial hiccups but settles down soon.

Catches up on sleep.

9. Your doggie’s soft spot is:

Scratching on the under-side of the neck.

A gentle stroke on the head.

A firm rub all over.

A wrestle.

10. Does your dog ever run away from home?

Doesn’t really “run away”…but may go out for a stroll by himself.

Wouldn’t even think about it!

Sometimes, but doesn’t go too far.

Yes! Stays out for days on end and comes back rotten.

Your Scores :

Mostly A’s: “Page 3 Personality”: This doggie survives on social contact and is the life of any neighbourhood. The “A-Types” like to welcome their guests with as much enthusiasm as the host and love to be the centre of attention. They tend to get cranky and upset if left alone for long. They are also more prone to attention seeking behaviour. They are good listeners and companions; especially for people who live alone. Full of energy and life, they revel in human or animal company. However, their over-enthusiasm may sometimes even land them in troublesome situations. Also, they have to be trained so that they don’t end up being too dependant. All they ask for is lots of love, food and a little bit of pampering.

Mostly B’s: “The Shy one”: These are overtly sensitive and reserved dogs probably bordering on insecurity and fear. They would turn into a bundle of nerves when faced with too many strangers (human and animals). They scare easily and prefer to play safe in every step they take. A harsh punishment can push them back into their shell and it may take long before you can win back their confi dence. These fragile beings need to be handled with utmost care and compassion in order to build their self-esteem. Think twice before scolding them and try to do with a gentle deterring technique. Use a lot of tactile stimulation as a sign of assurance. Nurture them so that they don’t grow up to be wimps. Physical activity with a lot of inter-personal interaction helps in most cases.

Mostly C’s: “Cool Dude/Babe”: These dogs are usually balanced in their everyday behaviour and not giver to extremes. They are cautious and careful with every move and tend to be moody at times. Being intelligent and alert, they are every dog-trainer’s delight. They adjust easily to new environments but may not be very social at times. They crave individual space and at the same time, need a fair amount of attention to keep them going. This brand usually knows how to chalk out plans and you may fi nd them playing by themselves, exploring around, taking a nap or chilling out in a cosy corner. The good news is that you have an independent dog who is co-operative, not too high in his demands. They tend to look up to their parents for leadership and guidance and your parenting will eventually determine what they become when they grow up.

Mostly D’s: “Angry Young Man”: Your dog is the leader of a wolf pack, not your regular pooch which kids go ga-ga over but a rebel who resists domestication! They love challenges, adventure and freedom. He is most probably a male and an alpha one at that! The D-types are less likely to appreciate too much petting and prefer to be by themselves. They derive thrills out of chases and testosterone driven encounters. These are internally motivated dogs and are not easily impressed by toys, treats and games, which make them diffi cult to train. They are usually unfazed in normal circumstances but can prove dangerous for an outsider if provoked. Fiercely loyal and strong, they make perfect police and guard dogs. Give them adequate exercise, food and space and they are good to go!